Rothwell MC Premier Moving Coil Step Up Transformer for low output MC

The Rothwell MC Premier is a moving coil step up transformer (SUT) and the newest member of Rothwell Audio’s well-regarded transformer range. It’s built for listeners who want strong, musically convincing results from a low output MC cartridge without adding layers of complexity. In a turntable system where consistency and simplicity matter, a carefully designed SUT can be an elegant way to keep the signal path straightforward while lifting MC level for easier partnering downstream.

A key advantage is the selectable 1:10 and 1:20 turns ratios. Use 1:10 for cartridges with slightly higher output, or switch to 1:20 when more gain is required to feed an MM phono input comfortably. The internal transformers are engineered for very low noise, wide bandwidth and excellent linearity, helping preserve the cartridge’s tonal balance, transient snap and dynamic expression. The result is a quieter background and a presentation that stays true to what your cartridge is doing.

In real-world setups, the MC Premier is commonly placed between the turntable and an MM phono stage, making it ideal where a dedicated MC phono stage isn’t needed or where you prefer the character of transformer gain. It also makes cartridge matching more approachable: choose the ratio that best suits your MC and system gain structure. Hand built in the UK with an emphasis on reliability and value, it’s a smart upgrade for vinyl-focused systems—consider adding it to your analogue chain.